Karen Martin

Sadly, I have been told by my pulmonlogist that the only way you can really decrease your need for supplemental O2 through PT is if you are pretty out of shape to start with.  Otherwise, there is no “curing” the need for O2.  I have recently been through a course of monitored PT and even though my stamina is better than it was and I can work for l…[Read more]

Natalie, there is so much solid information here.  Pete is exactly right about the difference in pulse and continuous flow O2.  Of course we should follow our doctor’s orders, but they also need to be in-the-know about these things, too.  Outdoor humidity as well as temps affect breathing, without a doubt.  I am also not “consistent” in my bre…[Read more]

Even though I realize IPF is considered a disability, I guess I don’t think of myself as disabled most of the time.  Being almost 72, I have been retired long enough not to always feel the need to maintain the pace I used to.  Growing up, my two brothers were developmentally delayed, so “disabled” was a word I heard often, but they were just b…[Read more]

I hear that, Thomas!  I was diagnosed 3 1/2 years ago and also take a couple of other meds that are supposed to be linked to weight loss.  I know this is not an ideal way to lose weight, but it was a bright spot.  🙂  One day.

Jerry, I’m wondering if taking your restless legs meds at night might be more effective.  Perhaps their greatest efficacy has worn off by bedtime.  Just a thought.

Ladies, I also have leg, foot, hand as well as rib cramps.  I have found that drinking 6 ounces of tonic water will help.  I also take potassium in addition to the magnesium, which also seems to help.  Staying hydrated is very important.  The most helpful item I have found is a little pill called Restful Legs.  I get it at Walmart.  You place…[Read more]

You are very welcome, Pamela.  I certainly have my share of panic when I am short of breath and have to remind myself of these things.  I hope they will help you.

The most help I get for dyspnea is through pursed lip breathing and visualization.  You need to breath from your belly, not the upper lungs as we do when gasping for breath.  Breathe in slowly through your nose as your belly expands and out through pursed lips.  It is best to do this when sitting with a very upright posture.  As you calm down and…[Read more]

I was just offered the generic form of Esbriet with my most recent refill.  I do qualify for assistance, but I will happily take the generic form for two reasons.  Number 1, I have always found generics work just fine for me.  Number 2, even though the cost is not a huge difference yet, any extra dollars this makes available for others to re…[Read more]

Everyone needs time to take in this diagnosis, even your children.  I am in the camp that says tell them ASAP.   I’m also old enough to remember Sargeant Friday’s “Just the facts, ma’am.”  As was pointed out, they can (and very likely will!) seek out details on their own.  Each one has the opportunity to do that at their own speed and comfort leve…[Read more]

Unpredictable, sneaky, cruel and relentless.

I feel very fortunate that I am still able to do my own vacuuming.  My daughter and son-in-law bought me a Dyson cordless.  When you are dragging around tubing, you really don’t need to also have to deal with a cord!  I only have a room-size rug in the living room, which helps.  I use a grabber tool for many things.  I also have an extending magn…[Read more]

Wishing you all the best with the transplant surgery, Russel!  Be strong!  Be fearless!  God bless you and speed your recovery.  You will be in many prayers.

It has been my experience that the high-flow is linked to darker green tubing.  Anyone else fine this to be the case?

Sounds simple enough.  Thanks for the idea.  I will be trying it as I also have a problem with this.

Earl, thanks for the reply.  I will look into the idea of a bluetooth app for that.  Who would have thought of it?  Well, not me, evidently!

Hey, Christie.  Before my condition curtailed my mobility so much, I used to help my neighbor walk her two dogs.  It was a lot of fun and I think your suggestion of volunteering to walk someone else’s dog or help out at a shelter would be great.  Between the companionship and the fresh air and exercise, you can’t help but boost your mood and health!

Richard, I love your explanation for the use of inhalers!  It certainly is more helpful than anything my docs have ever told me.  Always nice to get educated!  🙂

Linda, I wonder if your throat is irritated enough that you are getting tiny amounts of blood in your sputum.  That might make it somewhat salty.  Everyone’s body chemistry is unique, which might account for why it is so bad you get sores from it.  If you are using any sort of inhaler, that might also account for the sores on your tongue.  Be car…[Read more]

Like Wendy, I am an animal lover.  My kids and grands have dogs who are a delight to watch romp and play.  A good vacuuming after they visit is a must, but well worth it to me.  I have a sweet cat who is my buddy.  He is very gentle and seems to pick up on my moods and is extra cuddly on days when that is what I need.  He is an indoor-outdoor guy,…[Read more]